Bait Al Mandi shares their love of Mandi

Mandi is one of the most popular traditional Arabic dishes. It is made of meat and rice with a special blend of spices. This delicious dish is usually enjoyed along with the family and in groups. And Bait Al Mandi shares their love of Mandi with the world. They are the first Mandi Restaurant chain in UAE and also very popular. In this interview with Brenton Coghlan, General Manager of Bait Al Mandi, we discover what drives their success.

1. How did you enter in the franchise business?

We the mission statement of being the leading International Arabic Restaurant chain. To achieve this mission, we decided to expand into franchising. After preparing all the manuals, policies and procedures, interior designs and kitchen layouts to suit several layout options, we started looking for
qualified franchisees. We have seen a fantastic leap in franchising opportunities of Bait Al Mandi
in the UK, China, India and Canada in the recent months.

2. Where and how did the idea of your concept come from?

The concept was formed in 2000 with the owner Mr. Ahmed Ismeal, to offer a unique but original Arab cuisine to the residents and guest of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. We opened our very first branch in Muraqqabat, Dubai in 2001 and have grown and grown since then.

3. What inspired the brand name?

Bait Al Mandi in English means Home of Mandi. Mandi a traditional Arabic meal of Chicken or Lamb. It has special cooking process and secret spices that make this dish loved the World over.

4. What is the story behind the brand’s logo?

Our logo is very unique. It contains the name Bait Al Mandi Restaurant and its Arabic calligraphy. It also reflects the Love of Food.

5. What makes your brand different from your competitors?

The quality of the produce is second to none and the love and care that goes into the food. Our whole team love what they do and love the company which in return, comes across in the quality of our food and service. We source the very best produce rice, chicken and lamb to ensure we are always the market leaders.

6. What are the essential qualities that you look for in a franchisee?

We look for the following elements for a great franchisee:

1. Leader & a great communicator
2. Willingness to Learn
3. Team Player
4. Passionate
5. Results Driven
6. Adaptability
7. Honesty

7. How long does it take, on average, for your franchisee to realize their investment?

With our current franchisees, we are seeing an average of 18 to 24 month on full ROI. This is very good considering the market average is 3 years. But it does not come easy. You must be focused and driven for success to achieve these results. Be on top of the marketing and follow our sales training, service excellence training and know that every dish must be perfect and exceed guests expectations every time.

8. What was the major challenge you faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?

A major challenge is finding qualified franchisees. Many people have the idea to start a business via franchise but it takes time and passion to see it through. We have been blessed with an amazing brand and have the strategy for a successful business model. By doing our due diligence, we have signed some amazing partners.

8.1. What is your best achievement?

Being awarded the most popular Arabic casual restaurant in Dubai and winning the Dubai Hidden Gems Restaurant of the Year 2019.

9. How does your business day start?

The day starts by greeting all team member arriving to the office. Reviewing the previous day sales report of all branches and franchisees. Reviewing and approving all purchase orders, emails, revision of
operations, marketing & action plans, scheduled meetings and visit at least 1 of the operations daily.

10. What was your best moment throughout your franchise career?

The best moment was signing the very 1st franchise agreement then going on to sign a master franchise.
This process of franchising is getting our name and brand around the world and we have started this journey and very excited in further international expansion.

11. Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?

We see Bait Al Mandi expanding into the Asian Market of Indonesia, China and Malaysia as well as the UK and Canada. Exciting time to come.

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